By and large, we're doing a lousy job of socking money away for big things in life, like retirement and college for our kids.

I know it's the holiday season and the last thing you want to hear about is frugality, but the best way to start off the new year is with a mindset that says "I will be vigilant about saving money".

But maybe you're already doing that. To see how your retirement plan contributions and your children's college fund compare with the norm, check out the results of these two surveys.

HOW MUCH DO YOU PUT IN YOUR 401(K)?

Median contribution

Household income (% of wages)
$50,000 to $75,000 6 .0 %
$75,000 to $100,000 8.5 %
More than $100,000 10.00 %


HOW MUCH HAVE YOU SAVED FOR COLLEGE?

Nothing 38%
$1,000 or less 4%
$1,000-$10,000 25%
$10,000-$40,000 20%
More than $40,000 13%

Note: Among parents with college-bound children and household income over $50,000. Source: Investment Company Institute.